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Lifeguard Classes on Long Island
Lifeguard class in Long Island: the essentials
| Course | Price | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeguard certification | $420 | 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Lifeguard recertification | $265 | 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM |
| CPR, AED and First Aid | $125 | 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
Prerequisites you must pass on the day
- Swim 300 yards continuously
- Tread water for 2 minutes using legs only
- Retrieve a 10-pound object from 7 to 10 feet of water and return it within 1 minute 40 seconds
- Be at least 15 years old for pool certification, or 16 for waterfront
What the course covers
- Water rescue and spinal injury management
- CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
- First Aid
- Surveillance, scanning and zone coverage
Check the facility before you book. Certification is the credential employers ask for, but individual counties and facilities can require their own qualifying exam on top of it, booked and charged separately. Nassau County's exam costs $100. Nassau County is the clearest example, so if you may work there see our Nassau County exam preparation class.
Call (718) 954-5567 or email info@upstateaquatics.com to confirm the next date in Long Island.
Become a Certified Lifeguard on Long Island Today
Thinking about becoming a lifeguard? Long Island is the perfect place to start. With its many beaches, pools, and waterfront communities, the demand for certified lifeguards is high, especially in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Whether you’re a teenager looking for your first summer job or an adult pursuing a rewarding part-time career, getting certified through a professional lifeguard course can open the door to many exciting opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about taking lifeguard classes on Long Island: what’s required, how to sign up, what the certification includes, and where it can take you.
Why Take Lifeguard Classes on Long Island?
Long Island is home to hundreds of aquatic facilities, both public and private. Town pools, beaches, country clubs, summer camps, and fitness centers all hire lifeguards year-round or seasonally.
Taking lifeguard classes here means:
Local job access
Many programs partner with hiring agencies and town recreation departments
Convenient scheduling
Weekend and evening courses available
Higher pay
Positions typically pay $20 to $25 per hour
Local prep for county exams
Especially important for Nassau County’s rigorous standards
What’s Included in a Lifeguard Certification Course?
Lifeguard training on Long Island typically includes:
CPR, AED & First Aid Training
You’ll learn how to recognize and respond to emergencies, including cardiac arrest, choking, and injuries. Most programs include adult, child, and infant CPR.
Water Rescue Skills
You’ll be trained in front and rear rescues, active and passive drowning victim saves, and spinal injury management, all in the pool or open water.
Written & Practical Exams
You must pass both a written test and in-water rescue scenarios to earn certification.
Nassau County Prep Course (Optional)
If you're looking to work at a town pool or beach, a separate Nassau County test may be required. Some training centers offer prep classes specifically for this exam.
Lifeguard Training Requirements
Before you begin your lifeguard classes, you must meet a few minimum requirements:
- Be at least 15 years old
- Swim 300 yards continuously using freestyle and breaststroke
- Tread water for 2 minutes without using hands
- Retrieve a 10-pound brick from 10 feet deep and swim 20 yards with it
These pre-course tests ensure you have the basic physical ability needed to complete the training and perform real-life rescues.
How Long Do Lifeguard Courses Take?
Most lifeguard certification courses on Long Island can be completed over a single weekend or in a 2–3 day schedule. Some locations offer accelerated weekday programs during school breaks or holidays.
Typical schedule:
Day 1
CPR/AED, First Aid, Basic rescues
Day 2
Advanced water rescues, spinal management, in-water testing
Day 3
Written exam, final skills check-off
Make sure to check if the course includes an online learning component, which is becoming increasingly common.
Where to Take Lifeguard Classes on Long Island
There are multiple reputable lifeguard training centers across Long Island. When choosing a provider, consider the following:
- Are they NYS Department of Health–approved?
- Do they include CPR and AED certification in the course?
- Do they offer Nassau County prep if needed?
- Do they help with job placement?
For example, Upstate Aquatics offers lifeguard training in Nassau County with weekend availability and optional gear add-ons like rescue tubes and CPR masks.
How Much Does Lifeguard Certification Cost?
Prices for lifeguard classes on Long Island generally range between $350 and $425. Add-ons like CPR masks ($10) and rescue tubes ($65) are available, and some providers offer discounted recertification rates.
Make sure to verify what’s included in the price: some programs charge extra for CPR or Nassau County test prep.
Job Opportunities After Certification
Once certified, you’ll be eligible to apply for jobs such as:
Beach Lifeguard (Town of Oyster Bay, Jones Beach, etc.)
Pool Lifeguard (YMCAs, community pools, gyms)
Summer Camp Lifeguard
Aquatics Program Assistant
Many facilities hire directly from training programs, especially in peak hiring seasons like spring and early summer. Apply for jobs such as:
Lifeguard Recertification on Long Island
Lifeguard certifications are valid for 2 years. It’s recommended to start your recertification process a few months before expiration to avoid any lapse in employment eligibility.
Some training providers offer recertification-only classes, which are shorter and lower in cost, usually around $200–$250.
Ready to Get Started? Enroll in Lifeguard Classes on Long Island Today
Whether you’re looking for a summer job, a career in aquatics, or just want to learn lifesaving skills, lifeguard classes on Long Island are the perfect place to start. With expert instructors, fast-paced weekend courses, and access to top-paying jobs, there’s never been a better time to get certified.
FAQ – Lifeguard Classes on Long Island
How old do I have to be to take lifeguard classes?
You must be at least 15 years old by the last day of class.
Can I become a beach lifeguard with this course?
Yes, but you may also need to pass a county-level exam (like Nassau County’s).
Do I need to know how to swim well?
Yes. You must complete a pre-course swim test that includes a 300-yard continuous swim and brick retrieval.
Is CPR included in lifeguard certification?
Most programs include Adult, Child, and Infant CPR, AED, and First Aid training.
What should I bring to class?
You’ll need a swimsuit, towel, goggles, notebook, and any required course materials.
Frequently asked questions about Lifeguard classes on Long Island
How much does Lifeguard classes on Long Island cost?
Lifeguard classes on Long Island is $420 and runs as a single full day, 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM. That price covers lifeguarding certification with First Aid and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer.
What are the prerequisites for Lifeguard classes on Long Island?
You must be at least 15 years old on or before the final session, and pass a prerequisite swim evaluation on the day: a timed swim, treading water without using your hands, and retrieving a brick from the pool bottom.
How long does the certification from Lifeguard classes on Long Island last?
Two years. Renew with a recertification course before it expires, or the full course is required again.
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